When Do I Recommend Removing Wisdom Teeth?

Here are the most common situations where I advise patients to go ahead with extraction:

Infection (or signs of developing infection)

If your X-ray shows a deep pocket forming around the wisdom tooth — especially one that’s hard to clean — food and bacteria will likely collect there. This often leads to painful swelling, infection, and sometimes even pus formation. If I see this early, I’ll recommend removal before it becomes a painful emergency.

Decay or damage to surrounding teeth

Wisdom teeth are often hard to reach with a toothbrush and floss. When decay begins or spreads to nearby molars, removing them is the safest option.

TMJ-related issues or jaw discomfort

In some patients, impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can cause pressure and contribute to TMJ pain. If your wisdom teeth are part of the problem, we address them proactively.

Not enough space in the jaw

If the wisdom teeth are crowding your other teeth or creating bite problems, it’s better to remove them early rather than wait for more complex issues to develop.

“But They Don’t Hurt… Should I Still Remove Them?”

I hear this a lot — and it’s completely understandable. Many patients are hesitant to remove teeth that aren’t causing them pain. But here’s the catch:

When I remove a wisdom tooth electively — before it flares up — here’s what you can expect:

• Fewer numbing injections needed
  
• A faster, simpler procedure
  
• Quick healing (often just 2–3 days)
  
• Minimal post-op discomfort
  
• Little or no time off work

But if you wait for symptoms to appear, here’s what can happen:

• Harder to numb — infected tissue is more resistant to anesthesia
• Surgical drainage may be needed — especially if there’s an abscess
• Higher risk of complications — like dry socket, jaw stiffness, or lingering pain
• Longer healing time — which often means more time off work

Many of my patients have high-responsibility jobs and tight schedules — and I completely understand that. But waiting until you’re in pain means your body needs more time to recover, which could disrupt your work and daily routine more than you expect.

My Advice?

If I recommend removing your wisdom teeth and you’re not currently in pain — consider it a gift of timing. We’re catching the problem before it turns into a bigger one, and you’ll avoid unnecessary time off, expenses, and discomfort later.

Ready to Get Checked?

If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to come out, come see me at Atlantis Dental for a consultation.

Only $49, which includes:

• A panoramic X-ray
  
• A full evaluation with me, Dr. Naqvi
  
• A personalized plan based on your situation — no pressure, no one-size-fits-all
  
  

Let’s take care of your smile before it becomes a problem.

Call us at (508) 270-5050 or book online at www.myAtlantisdental.com